Community Development Department

The City of Hemet Community Development Department consolidates three divisions whose primary responsibility is for the orderly development and maintenance of property, residences and businesses.  The Community Development Department staff reviews projects and building plans to ensure they comply with all current building codes, applicable laws and local zoning to ensure compatibility of land use in the built environment.  The Community Development Department consists of the following three divisions:

The Building and Safety division administers and enforces uniform federal and state codes, and City adopted laws and ordinances pertaining to construction.  This responsibility includes state mandates that ensure structures meet or exceed minimum life safety standards.  The Building division assures that these standards achieved by applying consistent procedures and processes to review and approve plans and specifications, issue permits, make field inspections, and issue certificates of occupancy.

The Code Compliance division responds to citizen complaints and pro-actively identifies violations on public and private property.  The basis of Code Compliance rests with property owners and tenants to act as good neighbors.  Property owners have rights that protect them; however, the term "property rights" also implies that property owners have certain responsibilities.  No property within the City may be used or maintained in a manner, which downgrades the value, use enjoyment or safety of one's or surrounding property.  Code Compliance activities protect the health and safety of the community and ensure the highest level of voluntary compliance.

The Planning division combines functions of Current and Advance planning to manage development within the framework established in the City's General Plan and Municipal Code.  Planning division oversight strives to achieve orderly and compatible development to create livable neighborhoods, support economic development, and sustain a high quality of life for Hemet's citizens.  Planning staff coordinates with business owners, local community groups, citizens, engineers, architects and other project proponents to ensure that every development project makes the most sense for the community and makes Hemet a desirable place to live, work and play.